Unusual and challenging sewing techniques

Unusual and challenging sewing techniques

I was having a conversation with somebody recently about the different techniques we use in sewing clothes. So I began to make a list. I'm not talking about the basics like laying out a pattern, cutting, simple darts. They are important for sure, but I'm more...

2026 Sudoku wardrobe contest

2026 Sudoku wardrobe contest

This is an ongoing post, and I'll update it as I go The 2026 wardrobe contest organised by Sewing Pattern Review is the perfect opportunity for me to use up my (huge) stash and also to sew a new wardrobe after big weight loss over the last 12 months. I also need to...

Revisiting my youth

Revisiting my youth

..through the medium of Vintage Sewing Patterns. I discovered this classic deep in my stash recently. Apparently I was a size 12 back when I was 18 years old and sewed this the last time. I loved this pattern, especially the jacket which was so cool. I made it from a...

Garden redesign

I've been shopping for plants at Farmer Gracy for the great garden redesign of 2025. These arrived today and are now potted up, parked in the greenhouse and doing their thing while I get the borders ready. Photos and descriptions from the Farmer Gracy websiteOne...

Tweed skirt SWAP 2017

Tweed skirt SWAP 2017

I never finished a SWAP yet, planned loads, stashed the fabrics, even sewn a couple of items, but never got anywhere near finishing. Mostly because I get too ambitious and try for complicated patterns, then get derailed by the inevitable disappointment because of...
Swap 2015: it’s morphing into a summer project

Swap 2015: it’s morphing into a summer project

Realistically I know I won’t complete all 11 garments by the end of March. That’s fine, I’m still happy with the plan, and it will work OK for my summer wardrobe.I saw this Pin today, and it got me thinking about what else I could add to make a...
Swap 2015..I found my Mojo!

Swap 2015..I found my Mojo!

January was to all intents and purposes a total write-off as far as sewing goes in an case. But a new month brings new energy and I’ve picked up my needle again. Looking back at the original SWAP it seems to have morphed slightly. The drapey cream sweater top is...

A Navy Pea Coat; not just for winter.

I’ve been obsessed by my Spring into Summer SWAP lately but there’s no getting away from the cold November weather in this part of the English Midlands. Shropshire Fog by Ian HopkinsonAnd I’m in desperate need of a warm coat, so everything else...

SWAP update prep week -5: starting the Red Trench Coat

I just had to make a list; first when I counted up the weeks and realised sewing starts in 5 (and Christmas and a whole heap of other stuff happens in those 5 weeks); and also when I saw MsSindy’s frankly intimidating spreadsheet. I am in awe!I’ve taken...